In Florida, images of alligators moving through the most incredible places, from avenues to backyard pools, are common; however, it is less usual to capture the moment they are feeding. That instant when, being carnivorous after all, they devour an animal from their surroundings.
A recent viral video shows how a golfer driving in his cart at The Quarry Golf Club, in the city of Naples, in Collier County, captured a crocodile swallowing a little bunny almost whole.
"Driving to the next hole... and this happens," wrote the witness of the scene on Instagram.
"Just another day of golf," can also be read inscribed in the images, referring to the frequency with which these reptiles are seen on golf courses, one of their characteristic locations.
Caimans are usually opportunistic predators, and their diet can vary depending on their size and the environment in which they live. They primarily feed on fish, birds, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
They also hunt larger prey, as in this case, if the opportunity arises. Juvenile alligators feed mostly on insects and small animals, while adults can capture larger prey.
The video went viral from the Instagram account Only in Florida, where some lamented the fate of the poor little bunny while others pointed out that it is simply part of the food chain of that species, a natural process even though the images may shock the more sensitive viewers.
And it's that the alligators reign in Florida.
In recent days, the sighting of a huge specimen next to a bank at Black Point Marina, in Cutler Bay, in Miami-Dade County, once again highlighted the ever-imposing presence of these animals.
Florida is home to approximately 1.3 million alligators.
The mating season for crocodiles begins in April and lasts until June. During that time, males become more aggressive, and some drive the weaker ones out of their territory.
At that time, alligators can travel long distances, which makes them more prone to appearing in residential pools, golf courses, or gardens.
Deaths or serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida. However, the public is advised to maintain a safe distance from the reptiles, not to feed them, and to swim only in designated areas during daylight hours.
Residents are also advised to keep their pets tied up and away from the water's edge.
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